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J. Nutrition and Food Processing

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Globalize your Research Maria Regina Penchyna Nieto

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Open Access Review Article

The impact of nutrition on people's cognitive development

Maria Regina Penchyna Nieto
Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico.

*Corresponding author: Maria Regina Penchyna Nieto, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico.

Received date: June 28, 2024; Accepted date: July 18, 2024; Published date: August 07, 2024
Citation: Penchyna Nieto MR, (2024), The impact of nutrition on people's cognitive development, J. Nutrition and Food Processing, 7(9);
DOI:10.31579/2637-8914/244

Copyright: © 2024, Maria Regina Penchyna Nieto. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License,
which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract:
Background: Adequate nutrition of the brain maintains the structural and functional integrity of the brain and nervous tissue,
which improves cognitive ability, improving the relationships we have every day and, above all, preventing cognitive
deterioration associated with aging.
Key words: cognitive; nutrition development; mental disorders

Introduction
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in shaping cognitive development across the Justification
lifespan. From infancy to old age, the nutrients we consume directly
influence brain function, affecting learning, memory, and overall Eating habits are the set of customs that determine man's behavior in
cognitive abilities. This essay explores how various aspects of nutrition relation to food and eating. It includes everything from the way food is
impact cognitive development and the implications for individual health selected to the way it is consumed or presented to the people whose food
and society at large. is in their hands. Eating habits are the product of the interaction between
culture and the environment.
The importance of adequate nutrition and having bad eating habits has
consequences for cognitive development such as poor school Development
performance, decreased attention, difficulties communicating with others,
During early childhood, nutrition is critical for brain growth and
having some type of reasoning and adapting to new environments and
development. Essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins (especially B
people. Furthermore, a good diet will always be a great line of defense
vitamins), minerals (like iron and zinc), and omega-3 fatty acids are
against many diseases that can leave consequences and mark your
fundamental for neuronal development, myelination, and
physical development in adulthood. The present systematic review is to
neurotransmitter synthesis. Adequate nutrition supports the formation of
reveal the influence of eating habits on cognitive development. In which
neural connections and enhances cognitive functions such as attention,
food is one of the pillars for physical, mental growth and cognitive
memory, and problem-solving skills.
development. Nutritional requirements for human beings vary
considerably depending on aspects such as age, weight, height, physical Studies have shown that malnutrition, particularly protein-energy
activity, genetic and metabolic conditions, among others. (WHO,2024) malnutrition, can lead to irreversible cognitive impairments. Children
deprived of essential nutrients may experience stunted growth,
On the other hand, the way cognitive development focuses on thought
developmental delays, and diminished intellectual capacity. For example,
processes and the behavior that reflects these processes is the basis of one
chronic iron deficiency in infancy has been linked to poorer cognitive
of the five perspectives of human development that are mostly accepted.
outcomes, including impaired learning and reduced academic
The cognitive process is the relationship that exists between the subject
performance later in life.
who knows and the object that will be known and that generally begins
when he manages to make an internal representation of the phenomenon Nutrition continues to influence cognitive function during adolescence
that has become an object of knowledge, which is why good nutrition is and adulthood. The brain remains plastic throughout life, continually
essential for the correct development of children and instilling good adapting to environmental stimuli and nutritional inputs. Diets rich in
nutrition habits. adequate since this helps prevent diseases such as obesity antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and phytochemicals from fruits
or diabetes. The symptoms that can be generated by a diet are low in and vegetables, have been associated with better cognitive performance
cognitive development with cardiovascular problems, psychological, and a reduced risk of cognitive decline in older adults.
motor, socialization and cognitive alterations. These symptoms can
generate energy depletion and sometimes make you unable to perform Conversely, diets high in saturated fats and refined sugars have been
other activities. linked to cognitive deficits and an increased risk of neurodegenerative
diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. These dietary patterns can induce
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oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance, which are places them at a higher risk for iron deficiency anemia. And this can
detrimental to neuronal health and cognitive function. impact overall intelligence and cognitive development.
Interventions and Public Health Implications Zinc is an essential trace mineral present in the brain that contributes to
cerebral structure and function, Zinc deficiency during infancy is
Understanding the impact of nutrition on cognitive development has associated with motor development delays and detrimental effects on
profound implications for public health policies and interventions. attention and short-term memory. (J Clin Epigenet,2017)
Promoting access to nutritious foods, especially among vulnerable
populations, is crucial for fostering optimal cognitive development from The Impact of Nutrition on Cognitive Development in Alzheimer's
early childhood through adulthood. Programs that provide fortified foods, Disease
nutritional supplements, and nutrition education can mitigate the adverse
effects of malnutrition and support cognitive resilience. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder
characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and changes in
Furthermore, integrating nutrition education into school curricula and behavior. While the exact causes of AD are multifaceted and not fully
healthcare settings can empower individuals and communities to make understood, research increasingly points to the role of nutrition in
informed dietary choices that enhance cognitive function and overall influencing the development and progression of this debilitating
well-being. Early identification and intervention for nutritional condition. This essay explores the relationship between nutrition and
deficiencies can prevent long-term cognitive impairments and promote cognitive development in Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the potential
equitable access to cognitive development opportunities. impact of dietary factors on both prevention and management.
The first years of life are decisive for a person's future, it is a stage in Nutritional Factors in Alzheimer's Disease
which the brain reaches 90% of adult size development and favors the
development of psychomotor skills and learning about the environment Mounting evidence suggests that certain nutrients play critical roles in
and the experiences acquired. For the development of these processes, brain health and may influence the onset and progression of Alzheimer's
nutritional status is considered a pillar. Fundamental for guaranteed disease. For example, antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, along with
development potential and quality of life. A deficiency or excess of phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables, help combat oxidative
micronutrients or vitamins such as fatty acid, folic acid, zinc, iron and stress and inflammation in the brain, which are implicated in the
iodine that, together with health problems, socioeconomic, pathology of AD. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid
environmental, biological and family factors, can affect the normal (DHA), are essential for neuronal membrane integrity and synaptic
functioning of motor and cognitive development. Food throughout history function, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline. (J Clin
has been the main source of obtaining nutrients. We can define food as Epigenet,2017)
the process by which living beings consume different types of food to Conversely, diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, and refined sugars have
have proper functioning in the human body as it is one of the main been associated with increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and
activities and most essential processes to maintain homeostasis. Since the oxidative damage, all of which are detrimental to cognitive function and
ingested foods are transformed and assimilated, that is, they will be may accelerate neurodegeneration in individuals predisposed to AD.
incorporated into the metabolism thanks to metabolic and enzymatic
processes, to degrade them and convert them into smaller molecules Impact of Nutrition on Cognitive Resilience
which we call nutrients. An adequate diet, which provides the body with Optimal nutrition is crucial for maintaining cognitive resilience in
the nutrients it needs, combined with regular physical activity, is key to individuals at risk for or living with Alzheimer's disease. A balanced diet
enjoying good health. On the contrary, a poor diet can have very negative rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and nutrients that support brain
effects, reducing the capacity of the immune system and subtracting health, such as vitamin B12 and folate, may help protect against cognitive
physical and mental energy to carry out basic activities normally decline and delay the onset of symptoms. For instance, the Mediterranean
(Moreno,2020). About the cognitive part where the brain needs a diet, characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole
continuous supply of nutrients for its correct formation, development, and grains, nuts, and olive oil, has been consistently associated with a lower
functioning. All nutrients are necessary, although some have a greater risk of AD and improved cognitive function in older adults.
implication in cognition and mental health. Numerous studies have shown
that many aspects of cognition (memory, reasoning, attention, IQ) and Challenges and Opportunities in Nutritional Interventions
cognitive impairment (dementia, depression, Alzheimer's disease,
Despite growing evidence supporting the role of nutrition in Alzheimer's
Parkinson's) are affected by the consumption of inadequate diets.
disease, implementing effective dietary interventions poses challenges.
Malnutrition is characterized by an imbalance between a person´s nutrient Individual dietary preferences, accessibility to nutrient-rich foods, and
requirements and their nutrition consumption and includes conditions of cultural factors can influence dietary habits and nutrient intake. Moreover,
overnutrition and undernutrition. the progression of Alzheimer's disease often complicates dietary
management, as individuals may experience appetite changes,
Undernutrition is cause by an inadequate intake of energy, protein, or swallowing difficulties, and challenges in meal preparation.
vitamins and minerals and is a present- day global problem.
However, ongoing research highlights promising avenues for nutritional
The human brain requires all essential nutrients, including protein, fats, interventions in AD management. For example, personalized nutrition
carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and water, to form and maintain its approaches tailored to individual genetic profiles and disease progression
structure, Therefore, adequate nutrition is essential for brain development stages may optimize therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, nutritional
and function. supplements targeting specific nutrient deficiencies or neuroprotective
Micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, choline, iodine, folate, B12, and long- compounds continue to be investigated for their potential to support
chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) have been identified to be cognitive function and quality of life in AD patients.
particularly relevant to cognitive development. Nutrients and Cognition
Iron is essential for the development of neurological pathways in the brain Carbohydrates
that influence brain function. During the first two years of life, children
experience rapid growth, which increases their iron requirement and Importance of the glycemic index the human brain, due to its high
metabolic activity, needs a continuous supply of glucose to maintain
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cognitive abilities. Glucose is the main energy substrate of neuronal associated with improved memory in offspring during childhood and a
tissue, the hippocampus (a key area of learning and memory), is especially lower risk of NTD.
vulnerable to interruptions in its supply. Low glycemic index foods
reduce insulin resistance and may improve cognitive ability (attention, Minerals
memory, mathematical ability) compared to high glycemic index foods. Iron is necessary in the myelination process of neurons and in the
High consumption of simple sugars has been associated with difficulty synthesis of neurotransmitters. Iron deficiency anemia has been related to
concentrating and paying attention. (Allen L,2022) a decrease in concentration, reasoning, speed of correct answers,
Proteins performance and ability to perform tasks throughout the day. Iodine is
involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, necessary for proper brain
The quantity and quality of the proteins we eat in our diet can modulate and mental development.
the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Since various studies show a positive
association between the intake of certain amino acids and cognitive Antioxidants
ability. The neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine/adrenaline are Cognitive impairment has been associated with oxidative stress; vitamin
synthesized from the amino acids’ tryptophan and tyrosine, respectively. C intervenes in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, protecting nervous
Serotonin is involved in many physiological processes including tissue from oxidative stress. Vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols),
cognitive function. Low levels of serotonin are associated with decreased only tocopherols are actively taken up by the brain and are involved in the
learning, reasoning and memory. The conversion of tryptophan to protection of neuronal membranes. Serum tocopherol levels are inversely
serotonin depends on its plasma concentrations. Tryptophan is found in associated with the risk of cognitive decline. Zinc intervenes in energy
many foods (meat, dairy products, nuts), its supplementation improves metabolism, in antioxidant and immune defenses and in the synthesis of
attention, visual memory and learning. neurotransmitters and plays an important role in brain activities. Its
Lipids deficiency is related to ADHD in children, memory and learning
problems. In adolescents and stress, depression and cognitive impairment
Unsaturated fatty acids have a beneficial role in cardiovascular disease, in adults and the elderly.
diabetes, cancer, depression and. cognitive function. However, high
consumption of saturated fatty acids (SFA) is associated with cognitive Carotenoids
impairment. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the main component of Lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z) are potent antioxidants and anti-
membrane phospholipids, especially in the cerebral cortex, and helps inflammatory agents that help protect the nervous system from oxidative
greatly in the intervention of visual and auditory function. Its deficiency and inflammatory stress. The brain and eyes are susceptible to free radical
has been related to a decrease in visual acuity, memory, cognitive damage, as both have very high concentrations of AGPs and a high
performance and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in metabolic load. Hydration and cognitive capacity Water is an essential
addition to having an important role in preventing or delaying the nutrient for proper brain function. A decrease in intake is related to states
progression of diseases. psychiatric and neurodegenerative (dementia, of confusion, irritability, lethargy and loss of cognitive function.
depression, bipolar disorder and Alzheimer's disease) DHA
supplementation during pregnancy, lactation or in the first years of life Dehydration in the brain impairs nerve transmission and decreases
appears to improve mental performance and psychomotor development in cerebral blood circulation, which can affect mental performance. It has
children. (Allen L,2022) been observed that properly hydrated people have higher scores on
intelligence tests. A dehydration.
Micronutrients: Beneficial effects Vitamins
Melatonin
Vitamin A that has an important role for vision, skin, bones and
reproduction you can be found in carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach. Known as the sleep hormone because its basic function is to regulate the
sleep cycle and heart rate, achieving complete and restorative rest. It
Vitamin C a very important antioxidant that helps improve immune performs various very specific biological functions such as re-
system and you can be found in oranges, strawberries and peppers. synchronizing the circadian sleep-wake rhythm, retinal functions, tumor
Vitamin E a strong antioxidant that helps stabilize cell membranes and growth and participates in the release of free radicals and regulation of
can be found in almonds, spinach and sweet potatoes. blood pressure. The synthesis and release of melatonin is stimulated by
darkness and suppressed by light. Its precursor is the amino acid
Vitamin K important for blood clothing and bone health found in kale, tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin thanks to the activity
spinach and broccoli. mediated by serotonin-acetyltransferase enzymes that convert it.
serotonin into melatonin.
Vitamins B1, B6, B12, B9 (folic acid) are essential for proper brain
function. Vitamin B1 intervenes in the metabolism of carbohydrates, Tryptophan
ensuring energy production. This vitamin modulates cognitive
performance, especially in the elderly since a high intake of Thiamine One of the main amino acids that our brain requires is tryptophan because
helps a lot with cognitive improvement. Vitamin B9 is essential for proper it is a modulator of appetite and satiety. Another of its functions is that it
brain development and function during the perinatal period. Its deficiency acts as an intermediary between sleep, pain sensitivity and blood
in pregnancy is related to neural tube defects (NTD) and low birth weight. regulation, as well as alterations in our behavior. Therefore, it is one of
Various authors show a positive association between the maternal status the most essential amino acids because the body cannot produce it on its
of this vitamin and the cognitive development of the offspring. Vitamins own, which is why we must include it in our diet where it is mainly found
B6 and B12 are directly involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. in foods of animal origin.
Vitamin B12 delays the appearance of signs of dementia, and its Serotonin and brain function
supplementation improves brain and cognitive functions. Vitamin D not
only helps treat different chronic diseases but also prevents cognitive By consuming foods rich in tryptophan in our diet, this amino acid fulfills
deterioration and dementia, as well as choline, which is a precursor of the the function of being the main precursor of serotonin that helps moderate
neurotransmitter acetylcholine and membrane phospholipids that body temperature, regulate motor activity along with perceptual and
influences sleep, memory and learning. Adequate maternal intake is cognitive functions, control bone density parameters, liver regeneration,
regulation of sleep, moods, emotions and depressive states, intervenes in
vascular and vascular functioning. heart rate, prevents mental imbalances
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DOI:10.31579/2637-8914/244
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